The world's 20 oldest cities

These cities, contenders for the 20 oldest continually-inhabited places on Earth, are about as close as you can get to time travel on holiday. Not all are safe to visit, however. Check the latest Foreign Office advice before planning a trip.

20. Varanasi, India

When did the earliest inhabitants settle? 1,000 BC

Situated on the west bank of the Ganges, Varanasi - also known as Benares - is an important holy city for both Hindus and Buddhists. According to legend, it was founded by the Hindu deity Lord Shiva 5,000 years ago, though modern scholars believe it to be around 3,000 years old.

Mark Twain (American author): "Benares is older than history, older than tradition, older even than legend, and looks twice as old as all of them put together."